Free Potassium Iodide (KI) Tablets Available to EPZ Area Residents
In the event of a serious emergency at a nuclear power plant, the immediate critical issue is the release of radioactive iodine, emitting potentially lethal radiation. To protect the thyroid gland, especially in people under 40, potassium iodide (KI) tablets should be ingested within minutes if possible, as directed by public health officials. KI is effective for 24 hours and should be taken until advised otherwise or when leaving the emergency area. It's advisable for individuals near a nuclear plant to include these tablets in their emergency kit. Remember to check expiration dates every 5-10 years.
For more info on how potassium iodide works and why it's important to keep some on hand if you live near a nuclear plant, check out Questions and Answers about Potassium Iodide (KI) from the American Thyroid Association.
In New Hampshire, getting potassium iodide (KI) tablets is quick and easy. Just fill out the online form, and the tablets will be mailed to you for free.
In Massachusetts, each EPZ community has their own way of administering KI tablets to their residents through their local health department. Please click on the More Info tab to learn how to receive KI tablets from your community. You may want to call ahead to confirm the appropriate staff member is there to help you.
Where to Get Free KI Tablets
| Community | Address | Contact | More info |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amesbury | 29 South Hunt Road | Deb Ketchen: (978) 300-8159 | Amesbury Public Health Department |
| Merrimac | 2 School Street | Deb Ketchen: (978) 804-9534 | Merrimac Public Health Department |
| Newbury | 12 Kent Way | Deborah Rogers: (978) 465-0862 | Newbury Public Health Department |
| Newburyport | 60 Pleasant Street | Frank Giacalone: (978) 465-4410 | Newburyport Public Health Department |
| Salisbury | 5 Beach Road | John Morris: (978) 462-3430 | Salisbury Public Health Department |
| West Newbury | 381 Main Street | Paul Sevigny: (978) 363-1100 x119 | West Newbury Health Department |
| New Hampshire | There is a KI form to fill out | More information at ReadyNH.gov |
